The Benue State Police Command has arrested one Mbalumen Ikyenge for allegedly setting ablaze the house of her boyfriend, Aondoyima Ierkwagh, resulting in the deaths of his two daughters, aged four and six. The incident occurred in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area.
Police Confirm Incident and Investigation
Confirming the incident to journalists, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, DSP Udeme Edet, stated that the command received a report from the father of the deceased girls alleging that an individual set his house on fire. Edet noted that the command is yet to determine the motive behind the attack but is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Neighbors Allege Relationship Dispute
However, some neighbors alleged that the incident stemmed from a relationship dispute. According to witnesses, the suspect visited her boyfriend's residence on Sunday night, July 5, but was asked to leave. The disgruntled girlfriend reportedly refused to leave, suspecting that another woman was with her boyfriend in the house.
The witnesses further claimed that Ierkwagh had locked his two daughters in a separate round hut before retiring to another hut. At about midnight, the suspect allegedly set the hut ablaze, believing another woman was inside, but the fire engulfed the structure where the two girls were sleeping.
Victims Succumb to Severe Burns
Neighbors reportedly rescued the children and rushed them to a hospital, where they later died from severe burns. DSP Udeme Edet reiterated that the command is investigating the matter and urged the public to remain calm as they work to uncover the full details.
